Save on Summer Fun

4 Easy (and Unexpected) Ways to Save on Summer Fun

…without missing out on the good stuff


Sunshine season is calling—and with it, the urge to say "yes" to every BBQ, beach day, road trip, and back-to-school haul. But let’s be real: summer spending can sneak up fast. Between family outings, last-minute vacations, and the pressure to pack in as much fun as possible, your budget can start to feel more fried than your sunscreen-soaked skin.

What if you could enjoy all the best parts of summer—without the financial sunburn? We’ve rounded up four creative, easy-to-implement ways to save money on your favorite warm-weather plans. These aren’t your usual “pack your lunch” tips (you already know that one). These are actually doable—and designed to keep the fun going without draining your wallet. Whether you’re planning a staycation, heading out of town, prepping for back-to-school, or looking to consolidate some post-summer bills, a personal loan at Fort Worth City Credit Union can help you take control and make your money work harder for you. But first—let’s get to saving.

1. Skip the Tickets—Volunteer for the Experience

Love concerts, festivals, or sporting events? Look for volunteer opportunities that give you free admission in exchange for a few hours of help. Many local summer events in Fort Worth offer free passes to volunteers who help with check-in, crowd control, or setup.

You'll still get to enjoy the fun—maybe even from behind the scenes—and your wallet will thank you.

Bonus tip: Check city websites or Facebook event pages for open calls for volunteers.

2. Host a “Swap Before You Shop” Night

Before you blow your budget on summer clothes, school supplies, or toys for the kids, try this: invite a few friends or neighbors over for a swap night.

Think clothing, backpacks, books, beach gear, toys, sports equipment, and more. It’s fun, it’s social, and it helps you purge the stuff you’re not using—while scoring “new” things for zero dollars.

Why it works: You’d be surprised what treasures are hiding in someone else’s garage.

3. Use Subscription Pauses to Your Advantage

Streaming, subscription boxes, gym apps—summer is a great time to pause the monthly costs you’re not actively using.

Not going to be home much in July? Pause the meal kit.
Too busy for the fitness app? Cancel and come back later.

Many services now allow you to pause without penalty. A few clicks could free up $50–$100/month. That’s money back in your pocket without even giving anything up.

Pro tip: Set a reminder to re-evaluate in September so you don’t auto-renew things you didn’t miss.

4. Don’t Drain Your Savings—Use a Summer Loan Instead

Some summer expenses are unavoidable: back-to-school gear, medical bills, family reunions, or debt you’re ready to knock out before fall. Instead of dipping into savings or turning to high-interest credit cards, a personal loan at Fort Worth City Credit Union gives you:

  • 1% off your qualifying rate (summer-only!)

  • Flexible terms that work with your budget

  • No collateral required

  • Fast approvals and local service

Whether you’re consolidating bills, planning a vacation, or just need some extra breathing room, we’ve got your back—without the heat of credit card interest.

Apply for a Summer Loan Today

Your Summer = Handled

Summer fun shouldn’t come with financial regret. With a few smart moves (and maybe a personal loan from your favorite credit union), you can keep things cool, fun, and totally under control.